China thanked Nepal on Wednesday for its rescue and relocation efforts following a severe mudslide disaster that hit Chinese-Nepal border areas last week and left Chinese citizens missing, Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said.
A fast-moving chain mudslide, triggered by a high-altitude glacier collapse in Nepal, struck Gyirong Port on the China-Nepal border in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region on Aug. 26, causing heavy casualties and leaving hundreds of people missing.
"So far, a total of 261 foreign nationals from 23 countries have been identified as unaccounted for in the disaster-stricken areas in China. China stands ready to maintain communication and coordination with all parties, and work together to carry out the screening and aftermath handling for the missing persons," Guo said at a press conference in Beijing.
"As of now, nearly 100 Chinese citizens remain missing in the disaster-stricken areas of Nepal. China wants to express its gratitude and hopes that the Nepali side will continue to rescue and transfer Chinese citizens in Nepal," Guo said.
China thanks Nepal's efforts to assist, transfer Chinese citizens in mudslide disaster
Austria has sent 48 young professionals -- Europe's largest national team -- to compete at the 48th WorldSkills Competition, which is being held from Tuesday to Sunday in Shanghai.
The Austrian competitors hail from a wide range of trades, from railway work and cement masonry to hairdressing and baking. All delegation members for this year's competition are under 22.
"In Austria the topic 'skills and competition' is very important. And so we say ok, let's send a big team because we want to produce motivators for the next generation. And what's [a better] motivator than the guy who competed in a WorldSkills competitionn," said Jurgen Kraft, head of Team Austria.
Although Austria last topped the gold medal table nearly three decades ago, the country is aiming for a comeback performance with this year's delegation.
"The chances of winning the most gold medals from all countries -- to be honest not that high, it's always China on top. But we are trying to be the best European country competing there," said Tarik Begeta, a member of the team.
Held every two years, the WorldSkills Competition is the world's largest international gathering of skilled professionals. This year's event will feature 64 skills, including seven new categories such as software testing and unmanned aerial systems. It has brought together about 1,400 competitors from nearly 70 countries and regions.
The competition covers six major skill areas, including manufacturing and engineering technology, information and communication technology, construction and building technology, transportation and logistics, creative arts and fashion, and social and personal services.
Austria sends Europe's biggest team to WorldSkills Competition in Shanghai
